Book excerpt: The book is about an industry that provides fast, reliable, on-demand, global door-to-door movement of goods. Author gives the information a practical orientation that will be useful to college business students and transportation professionals. Novice interested in the parcel delivery industry will find the book a valuable source of information. Section I, provides a brief history of the parcel delivery industry, the dominant carriers, and issues critical to the effective purchase and use of their services. Key topics covered in Section II are, basic packaging guidelines, packaging materials, packaging testing, and implementing a vendor compliance program. Section III outlines basic guidelines managers can use to lower shipping costs and increase their company's competitiveness. Key topics discussed are, selecting a carrier, audit and payment firms, accessorial charges, size and weight restrictions, loss and damage claims, and contracting. Material presented in Section IV, Appendices and Section V, Glossary Shipping Terms is supplemental information.